CREATIVE WAYS TO MEMORIALIZE LOVED ONES

Their light can shine long after they're gone

- By CECILE J. BALTASAR

Even years after a loved one passes on, those left grieving can still go through periods of intense longing. We need to hear their laugh again; see them wearing their favorite shirt, enjoy their baked masterpiece one more time. But since they've moved on, we are left to remember them only with what we have.

It is completely acceptable to make regular visits to your loved one's grave or niche at the columbarium. If you wish to, you can do more than that to keep their memory alive.

SUPPORT A CAUSE OR NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION THAT WAS CLOSE TO YOUR LOVED ONE'S HEART

Did your friend or family member advocate for a cause? One way to remember them is to continue their patronage.

Hold a fund-raising activity in their name and donate all the proceeds to your loved one's charity. You could personalize it by asking friends and family to donate an amount that matches your loved one's age when they passed.

Alternatively, you could spend a day out of every month to volunteer at the nonprofit that your loved one supported. Or you could use your skills to help.